Valve for inflatable objects

ABSTRACT

A self-sealing valve comprises a valve housing having a fluid conduit, a valve seat, a flexible diaphragm and a support member. The valve housing is configured to pass fluid through the fluid conduit. The flexible diaphragm provides a self-seal of the fluid conduit, and comprises an area larger than an area of the fluid conduit and a periphery. The support member is configured to retain a portion of a flexible diaphragm. The support member and flexible diaphragm are configured to position the flexible diaphragm against the valve seat to seal the fluid conduit in a closed position of the self-sealing valve, and to facilitate movement of at least a part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm in a first direction away from the valve seat to an open position.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of under 35 U.S.C. § 120 ofcommonly-owned, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/328,406, filed Dec.23, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,755,208, which is a continuation under 35U.S.C. § 120 of commonly-owned, U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/867,071, filed May 29, 2001, and issued on Jan. 21, 2003 as U.S. Pat.No. 6,508,264, which is a continuation under 35 U.S.C. §120 ofcommonly-owned, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/230,066, filed Jan.19, 1999, and issued on May 29, 2001 as U.S. Pat. No. 6,237,621, whichis a 371 of International Application No. PCT/US97/12231, filed Jul. 14,1997, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 60/022,151, filed Jul. 19, 1996, and whichare all hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a self-sealing valve and, more particularly,to any low pressure inflatable device that includes the self-sealingvalve.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

U.S. Pat. No. 5,267,363 (hereinafter the “'363 patent) and U.S. Pat. No.5,367,726 (hereinafter the “'726 patent”) disclose a valve and a motorfor inflating and deflating inflatable objects. FIG. 62 illustrates atop view and FIG. 63 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an embodimentof dual-valve assembly disclosed in the '363 and '726 patents. The valveincludes a flange 152 that may be mounted to a wall of an inflatablebody in a location proximate to a port through which air is transferredbetween an interior and an exterior of the inflatable body. The flange152 has a throat 1521 through which all air passes that is beingtransferred between the interior and the exterior of the inflatablebody. The throat 1521 is defined by a circular rim 1522. In addition, acover assembly 153 including a cap 1533 is used to removably cover thethroat 1521. A ring-shaped base 1531 is disposed around an exterior ofthe circular rim. The cap 1533 is attached to the base by means of ahinge assembly 1532. The cap may be latched into a closed position by alatching arrangement including a latch projection 1535 on the cap andlatch receptacle 1536 on the base. When the cap is closed, a gasket 1534is urged against the top 1523 of the rim 1522 so that the gasket issubmitted to compression, to seal the dual-valve assembly.

Disposed within the dual-valve assembly 153 is a valve assembly 154. Thevalve assembly includes a diaphragm 1544 and valve stem 1547. The valvestem and the diaphragm are supported by a valve stem support 1549 whichis attached to the cap 1533. The dual-valve assembly also includes astructure defining an inflation input 1542 and a valve seat 1543, thatthe diaphragm rests against in a closed position to further form a sealof the dual-valve assembly. The diaphragm can be accessed by anindividual at the inflation input and can be pushed axially within thedual-valve assembly in a downward direction into an open position bypressing on a push button 1546. The diaphragm is urged into the closedposition when the push button is released by a spring 1548, disposedwithin the valve stem, that pushes against a portion of the valve stemsupport.

Thus, the '363 and '726 patents disclose a valve that can be used toinflate and deflate an inflatable device wherein the diaphragm movesdownward in an axial direction towards an interior of the inflatabledevice away from the valve seat during inflation and that moves upwardin an axial direction towards the valve seat to seal the valve. However,the dual-valve assembly disclosed in the '363 and '726 patents isapproximately 4″×5″ and therefore requires substantial space formounting within an inflatable object. However, many inflatable objectscannot accommodate a valve assembly of this size and therefore there isa need for a smaller valve assembly that can be mounted within smallerinflatable objects. In addition, many inflatable devices have acontoured surface and therefore there is a need for a valve that can bemounted on a contoured surface area. Further, the dual-valve of the '363and '726 patents requires nine separate parts to be manufactured andassembled and therefore is costly and difficult to manufacture, assembleand maintain. Therefore, there is a need for a valve that requires lessparts, is cheaper to manufacture and assemble, and is easy to maintain.Moreover, the dual-valve disclosed in the '363 and '726 patents hasredundant devices for sealing the valve which contribute to theexcessive parts and cost. Therefore, there is a need for a valve thatprovides a suitable seal that does not require redundant structure toaccomplish the self-seal. Still further, since the valve is to beinserted within an inflatable device, there is a need for the valve tobe easy to use and easy to clean and/or repair.

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide aself-sealing valve assembly for use in inflatable devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment of a self-sealing valve according to the invention,comprises a valve housing having a fluid conduit, a valve seat, asupport member and flexible diaphragm. The valve housing is configuredto pass fluid through the fluid conduit. The flexible diaphragm providesa self-seal of the fluid conduit, and comprises an area larger than anarea of the fluid conduit and a periphery. The support member isconfigured to retain a portion of a flexible diaphragm and the supportmember and flexible diaphragm are configured to position the flexiblediaphragm against the valve seat to seal the fluid conduit in a closedposition of the self-sealing valve, and to facilitate movement of atleast a part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm in a firstdirection away from the valve seat to an open position.

One aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is it can becombined with a container having an interior, an exterior, a wallseparating the interior and the exterior, and a port in the wall fortransferring fluid between the interior and the exterior, and whereinthe valve housing is attached to the wall of the container so that fluidbeing transferred between the interior and the exterior of the containerpasses through the fluid conduit of the valve housing.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing, the support member and the flexible diaphragm areconfigured to maintain the flexible diaphragm at a valve seat side ofthe valve housing.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing has a first part disposed about a perimeter of the valvehousing that may be attached to the container wall, and a second partcoupled to the first part that includes the valve seat and the fluidconduit.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thesupport member and the flexible diaphragm are constructed and arrangedso that an act of fluid injection of sufficient pressure into thecontainer is sufficient to cause the at least the part of the peripheryof the flexible diaphragm to move in the first direction into the openposition to permit an influx of fluid into the container.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing, the support member and the flexible diaphragm areconfigured to maintain the flexible diaphragm in the closed positionabsent external forces.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing can be flush mounted to the wall of a fluid container sothat the valve housing is either substantially coplanar with or beneaththe wall of the fluid container.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the valve assembly are constructed and arranged sothat a sufficient fluid pressure created within a container maintainsthe at least the part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm againstthe valve seat when there is an absence of an influx of fluid.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing comprises a lip disposed about a perimeter of the valvehousing that may be directly attached to a container wall.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that itfurther comprises a stiffening device that reduces a flexing of theflexible diaphragm except for the at least the part of the periphery ofthe flexible diaphragm.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that itfurther comprises a locking device that is constructed to allow theflexible diaphragm to be placed into a locked open position.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that itfurther comprises a releasing tab, that can be contacted to release thelocking device.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thesupport member and flexible diaphragm are configured to suspend theflexible diaphragm so that no supporting structure exists under theflexible diaphragm.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged to providenon-axial movement of the at least the part of the periphery of theflexible diaphragm in a direction not substantially along an axis of thefluid conduit, in the first direction and in the second direction.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged to provide axialmovement of the at least the part of the periphery of the flexiblediaphragm substantially along an axis of the fluid conduit, in the firstdirection and in the second direction.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged to provide a highvolume of fluid transfer over a low pressure range through the fluidconduit.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing is constructed and arranged so that substantially any partof the flexible diaphragm may be contacted to regulate the transfer ofthe fluid through the self-sealing valve.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged so that theflexible diaphragm has a plurality of interactive positions with thevalve housing.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged so that flexiblediaphragm may be removed and replaced with another flexible diaphragm.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that itfurther comprises a device for connecting and disconnecting the valvehousing to a fluid control device.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thesupport member is flexible.

Another aspect of an embodiment of the self-sealing valve is that thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are configured to retain atleast an additional portion of the periphery of the flexible diaphragmfrom moving in the first direction.

Another embodiment of a fluid valve comprises a valve housing having afluid conduit, a valve seat, a support member and a flexible diaphragm.The valve housing is configured to pass fluid through the fluid conduit.The flexible diaphragm provides a seal of the fluid conduit, andcomprises an area larger than an area of the fluid conduit and aperiphery. The support member is configured to retain a portion of aflexible diaphragm. The support member and flexible diaphragm areconfigured to position the flexible diaphragm against the valve seat ina closed position of the valve, and to facilitate movement of at least apart of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm in a first directionaway from the valve seat to an open position.

Another embodiment of a self-sealing valve comprises a valve housinghaving a fluid conduit, a valve seat, a flexible diaphragm and a supportmember. The valve housing is configured to pass fluid through the fluidconduit. The flexible diaphragm provides a self-seal of the fluidconduit, and comprises an area larger than an area of the fluid conduitand a periphery. The support member is configured to removably retain aportion of the flexible diaphragm.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparentfrom the following detailed description when taken in connection withthe following drawings. It is to be understood that the drawings are forthe purpose of illustration only and are not intended as a definition ofthe limits of the invention.

The foregoing and other objects and advantages will be more fullyappreciated from the following drawing in which:

FIGS. 1–2 are cross-sectional side views of a first embodiment of aself-sealing valve attached to an inflatable body according to thepresent invention, wherein a diaphragm is in a sealed position;

FIG. 3 is a front cross-sectional view taken along line 3—3 of FIG. 2 ofthe valve of FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrating an inflatable body beingdeflated;

FIGS. 4 and 5 are a side cross-sectional view and a frontcross-sectional view, respectively, corresponding to the valve of FIG. 1illustrating the valve in the closed position under internal pressure ofthe inflatable device;

FIGS. 6–7 are a front cross-sectional view and side cross-sectionalview, respectively, of the valve of FIG. 1 illustrating deflation;

FIGS. 8 and 9 are a top view and a cross-sectional side view,respectively, illustrating a second embodiment of a self-sealing valveaccording to the invention;

FIGS. 10 and 11 are a cross-sectional front view and top view of thesecond embodiment, including a protective cover;

FIGS. 12–16 are cross-sectional side views that show the secondembodiment in respective states of operation including seated, unseated,at rest, and during inflation;

FIGS. 17–19 are cross-sectional views of a third embodiment of aself-sealing valve according to the invention;

FIGS. 20 and 21 are a top view and a cross-sectional side view,respectively, of the third embodiment, wherein a diaphragm is notinstalled;

FIGS. 22 and 23 are a top and a side view, respectively, of thediaphragm used with the valve of FIG. 17;

FIGS. 24 and 25 are a top view and a cross-sectional side view,respectively, of the valve housing of a fourth embodiment of aself-sealing valve according to the invention;

FIGS. 26–28 are a top, end, and side cross-sectional view, respectively,of a diaphragm hanger arm of the fourth embodiment;

FIGS. 29–32 are a pair of top and cross sectional side views, showingthe valve of FIG. 24 in two states of operation, seated and unseated;

FIGS. 33–36 are cross-sectional side views showing the valve of FIG. 24in four states of operation including inflation, seated, pressurecontrol, and deflation, respectively;

FIGS. 37–39 are an end, a top, and a cross-sectional side view of avalve housing of a fifth embodiment of a self-sealing valve according tothe invention;

FIGS. 40 and 41 are a top and a side view of a diaphragm hanger arm ofthe valve of FIG. 37;

FIGS. 42 and 43 are a top and a cross-sectional side view of the valveof FIG. 37, showing a housing, the hanger arm, and a diaphragm;

FIGS. 44–47 are cross-sectional side views showing the valve of FIG. 37in four states of operation including inflation, seated, pressurecontrol, and deflation, respectively;

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrates a sixth embodiment of a self-sealing valveaccording to the invention, with a top view and a cross-sectional sideview, respectively, the side view showing the valve in a seatedcondition;

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate the valve of FIGS. 48 and 49 in two states ofoperation, inflation and deflation, respectively;

FIGS. 52–54 are cross-sectional side views illustrating a seventh andpreferred embodiment of self-sealing valve according the invention withcross-sectional side views showing the valve in three states ofoperation including seated, pressure control, and deflation,respectively;

FIGS. 55 and 56 are top views of the valve of FIG. 52, showing the valvewithout and with the hanger arm and diaphragm, respectively;

FIGS. 57 and 58 show a portion of an inlet wall not mated and a hangerarm, respectively, of the valve of FIG. 52;

FIG. 59 illustrates a portion of an inlet wall and the hanger arm of thevalve of FIG. 52 in an operating position;

FIG. 60 is a top view showing the hanger arm of the valve of FIG. 52 ina locked open position;

FIG. 61 illustrates the hanger arm of the valve of FIG. 52 duringinstallation into the valve housing;

FIG. 62 illustrates a top view of a self-sealing valve of the relatedart;

FIG. 63 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a self-sealing valveaccording to the related art; and

FIG. 64 illustrates an inflatable device in which any of the embodimentsof the self-sealing valve of the present invention may be used.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A self-sealing valve of the present invention can be mounted within aninflatable object such as, for example, an inflatable mattress 12 havinga self-sealing valve 10 as illustrated in FIG. 64. The mattress can beinflated, deflated, and a pressure of the mattress can be controlledusing any of the self-sealing valves of the present invention disclosedinfra. Although in the examples and description of the variousembodiments of the self-sealing valve that follow, the description ofinflation of the inflatable object refers to the use of air, it is to beappreciated that any suitable fluid may be used for inflation such as,for example, water or nitrogen, and that the use of such fluid with theself-sealing valve of the invention is within the scope of theinvention. It is also to be appreciated that although a mattress isillustrated as an inflatable body for which any of the valves of thepresent invention may be used, the self-sealing valves may be used withany inflatable body such as, for example; inflatable furniture orsporting items such as chairs, mattresses and pillows; inflatable safetydevices such as life preservers, barriers, bumpers, and pads; inflatablemedical devices such as supports, casts and braces; inflatable luggagedevices such as padding and luggage lining materials; inflatablerecreational devices such as swimming aids, floats, tubes and rings;inflatable vehicles and vehicle components such as boats, rafts andtires; inflatable support structures such as buildings, portableenclosures, platforms, ramps and the like.

It is further to be appreciated that any of the valves disclosed infraaccording to the present invention can be used in connection with amotor such as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,267,363, (hereinafterthe “'363 patent”) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,367,726 (hereinafter the “'726patent”) which are herein expressly incorporated by reference. Moreoverit is to be appreciated that a preferred operating range of theself-sealing valves of the present invention is between approximately0–10.0 psi. Further, according to the present invention a range of about0–1.0 psi is defined as a low pressure range, a range of approximately1.0–2.0 psi is defined as a medium pressure range and a range ofapproximately 2.0–10.0 psi is defined as a relatively high pressurerange. It is to be appreciated that the preferred operating range hasbeen defined to be up to 10.0 psi, any pressure above 10.0 psi at whichthe valve still provides a self-seal is intended to be within the scopeof this invention

Referring to FIG. 1, a valve 10 is seated in an inflatable object 12that has an outer shell 14 that defines an interior 16. The interior isfilled with a fluid or gas, typically air. Valve 10 has a molded plasticframe 20 that includes a circular flanged outer periphery 22 that isgenerally coplanar with shell 14. Preferably the valve is constructed ofPVC or polyurethane, however, a more rigid and stronger material may beused for higher pressure applications. A valve wall 24 having a diameterless than that of outer periphery 22 defines a circular opening 26through which air is transferred to and from the interior. At itsoutermost, the opening has a diameter that is preferably about one inchor greater. The wall 24 has a constant diameter portion 25 and anoutwardly tapered portion 28 that increases the diameter of the openingto a circular, increased diameter portion 30. The upper edge of wall 24has a radiused inner edge at its outermost end for comfort in case theobject is inflated orally.

A retaining rib 36 extends across a diameter of increased diameterportion 30. Centrally located on the retaining rib is a vertical supportpost 38 which extends toward the circular opening 26. A floatingdiaphragm 40 rests on the support post. The diaphragm has a centrallylocated handle 42 at a top side, and a tapered indentation 44 on abottom side that mates with support post 38. Thus, the rib providesstability and limits movement of the diaphragm toward the interior.Diaphragm 40 is generally circular, deformable, very flexible, and has adiameter that is slightly less than the inner diameter of the increaseddiameter region 30, and greater than the diameter of portion 25. Taperedportion 28 has an inwardly facing wall 29 that serves as a shoulderagainst which outer periphery 46 of the diaphragm may contact.Indentation 44 and support post 38 help keep the diaphragm centered.

Diaphragm 40 may optionally be connected to frame 20 through a tether48, which may just be a flexible wire or sling other than this optionaltether. The diaphragm is preferably not otherwise rigidly connected toany part of the rest of the valve.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the valve is illustrated during inflation.Referring first to FIG. 3, which is a view taken at 90° relative toFIGS. 1 and 2, air is provided along arrows 50. The air may be suppliedby a motor, as with a hand or foot pump, or orally or with some otherinflating device. The motor can be similar to the motor described in myU.S. Pat. No. 5,267,363. Because of the flexibility of diaphragm 40,periphery 46 bends relative to centered handle 42. As air is providedinto the object, the diaphragm automatically bends inward, withoutadditional user input, to allow the air flow into the interior of theobject.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are views corresponding to FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively,when the inflatable object is under pressurization with air pressurerepresented by arrows 60. When air is no longer provided and theinterior is under pressure, the pressure automatically pushes diaphragm40 away from support post 38 so that periphery 46 is pressed againstwall 29 of tapered section 28 of the frame. The diaphragm thus seatedforms a hermetic seal when pressed against the frame. A cap 64 rib, orother rigid member can be further provided for slightly higher pressuresituations, or in order to provide greater security against air loss.The cap may have a tether 65 to prevent the cap from being lost. The caphelps to form a hermetic seal since the handle of the diaphragm contactsthe cap when the object is under pressure, thus also helping preventdeformation by the diaphragm. The cap may be a snap-on type, similar tothe type commonly used with plastic milk containers. For a more durableseal, the cap may incorporate an O-ring (not shown) to provide a seal inconjunction with the diaphragm serving as a check valve. Various othercap attachment means, may be used such as a bayoneted fitting, etc.

FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate views of valve 10 during deflation. To deflate,a user grasps handle 42 with two fingers and squeezes the flexiblediaphragm to allow air to escape as indicated by arrow 62. This actionlifts the diaphragm off the support post. To reduce the pressure, theuser can push directly on the diaphragm to allow some air to escape. Theuser could entirely deflate this way, but it would be moretime-consuming than removing the diaphragm. If a cap is used, it wouldfirst be removed.

According to the present invention, the valve automatically opens toaccommodate pressurization and automatically closes to retainpressurization. In order to depressurize and deflate, a user can veryeasily grasp the diaphragm and can remove it outwardly through theinlet. At low pressurization, it is not necessary to have an additionalcap, but at higher pressurization, a cap might be useful and may benecessary.

FIGS. 8–16 illustrate another embodiment of a self-sealing valve 75 ofthe invention intended for use with any low to medium pressureinflatable device. As in the previously described embodiment, the valveis self-sealing, allows both rapid inflation and deflation, and providessimple, ready means of adjusting and controlling pressurization of aninflatable device.

Similar to the valve in FIG. 1, the valve employs a valve housing 78with a wide orifice, circular air inlet passage defined by a rim 79which is centrally located within the housing. The rim's inner wall 84opens to the underside of the valve housing which widens to provide avalve seat 81 for valve diaphragm 88. The valve housing's outermost edge89 has a flanged periphery to accommodate attachment to a bladder ormembrane 77 of an inflatable device.

The valve diaphragm 88 is deformable and has a centrally located,upwardly extending handle 96 with a projecting rim 108. Contained withinthe opening of the air inlet is a diaphragm hanger 80, secured to thewall 84 of the inlet at one end (Point A) and latched to the opposingwall at the other end (Point B). The hanger spans the width of the innerwall 84 and secures the floating diaphragm 88 within the valve housing.The hanger does not restrict movement at the periphery of the diaphragm,so that the outer periphery 92 can flex downward during inflation,removal, and re-insertion.

The diaphragm handle 96 is captured within slot 100 in the hanger. Theslot allows a continuum of positions. There are two positions for thediaphragm, one at each end of the slot, where its handle 96 sits inopenings of increased diameter (102 & 103). At opening 102, centered inthe valve housing, the diaphragm is captured loosely. In situationsrequiring inflating of substantial volume and pressure, the diaphragmautomatically moves downward to maximize airflow (see FIG. 16) andupward to a sealed position following inflation (see FIG. 12).

While the hanger allows the diaphragm to move vertically within theinlet for proper inflation and sealing, it also prevents excessivevertical lifting of the diaphragm during periods of increased pressurewithin the inflatable device.

Fingertip action on the diaphragm's handle 96 will urge the diaphragm toslide sideways within slot 100 to the off-center opening 103 (see FIG.13). This opening is located near the end of the hanger, where thehanger is rigidly attached to the inner wall of the air inlet (Point A).Adjacent to this point of attachment, the hanger incorporates aspring-mounted hinge 112 which, in response to further pressure in thesame sideways direction as is required to move the diaphragm from thecenter position to the off-center position, causes the hanger to beunlatched. As the hanger is unlatched, the diaphragm is unseated,thereby allowing deflation of the inflatable device (see FIGS. 14 & 15).

When the diaphragm rotates out of the air inlet, it contacts the wallsof the inlet and flexes inward assuming a “U” profile. When rotated backinto the housing, the diaphragm returns to its original shape.

The handle 96 on the diaphragm has a projecting annular surface 140 thatrestricts the free vertical movement of the floating diaphragm. Itprevents the diaphragm from dropping away from the valve seat under itsown weight and serves as a lock (or check valve) to maintain thediaphragm in the sealed position even in the absence of air pressurewithin the device. This feature is of particular importance duringmanual inflating where the injecting of air may be intermittent. Thelocked position (see FIG. 12) prevents air loss that can occur betweenbreaths or between strokes of a pump. In the locked position, thediaphragm cannot drop suddenly if pressure within the inflatable devicefalls to a level where it cannot support the weight of the floatingdiaphragm, thereby preventing sudden, rapid air loss.

Under certain conditions, setting the diaphragm in the unlocked(unsealed) position (as shown in FIG. 16) prior to inflation can improveinflation efficiency. With the use of a low pressure, high volume,steady-state inflation source, the unlocked position can increaseairflow.

Since the area immediately below the diaphragm is unobstructed thebottom of the diaphragm is accessible through the flexible membrane ofthe inflatable device, providing means for moving the diaphragm from theunlocked to the locked position.

The latching end of the hanger may have an opening 144 to support acylindrical plunger 148. Upon pressurization of the inflatable device,the plunger slides vertically within the hole and is forced upward asthe diaphragm rises to the sealed position. The plunger can be manuallyforced down (i.e. via fingertip) to temporarily interrupt the seal.Thus, a user can effect small air releases for the purpose of adjustingpressure within the device. Alternatively, any other area within the airinlet that allows access (such as, for example, fingertip access) to thediaphragm may be used for such a purpose, wherein the diaphragm istemporarily unseated by direct contact of a fingertip.

FIGS. 17–23 illustrate another embodiment of a self-sealing valve of theinvention, which is intended for use in any low to medium pressureinflatable device. Similar to the previously described embodiments, thevalve is self-sealing, allows both rapid inflation and deflation, andprovides a simple ready means of adjusting and controllingpressurization of an inflatable device.

The valve employs a valve housing 200 with a wide orifice, circular airinlet passage defined by a wall 204 which is centrally located in thehousing. The wall 204 opens to the underside of the valve housing whichwidens to provide a valve seat 208 for a valve diaphragm 212. The outerrim 216 of the valve housing accommodates attachment to the film ormembrane which comprises the inflatable device.

The valve combines the wide-orifice inlet with a fixed diaphragm hanger220. The diaphragm hanger consists of a configuration of inwardlyextending ribs 228 rigidly attached to the inner wall 224 of the airinlet, to which the valve diaphragm is removably attached, and fromwhich the diaphragm is suspended and located within the valve housing.

The hanger rib configuration forms a generally extending Y-shaped hanger220 with ribs that radiate inward from the air inlet inner wall to thecenter of the inlet passage. Proximate the upper access, the single ribsextend at an angle, in parallel juxtaposition, to create the thirdspoke. Juxtapositioning these ribs creates a space, or slot 232, betweenthe ribs, into which a mating rib 236 projecting from the top surface ofthe diaphragm is inserted to secure the diaphragm into position. At thepoint where the hanger ribs are juxtaposed, the ribs assume an opposing“L” shape profile, leaving the bottom of the slot 239 narrower than thetop of the slot. The widened section of the slot 240 accepts an enlargedarea 244 projecting at the top of the mating diaphragm rib, creating a“hanger” from which the diaphragm is suspended, thereby securing avertical alignment of the valve diaphragm and the valve housing.

Horizontal alignment is achieved by interlocking the valve diaphragm 212in the hanger slot 232. A constriction 248 near the end of the slot,formed by projections in the slot, captures the enlarged area 244 of themating diaphragm rib and prevents horizontal movement of the diaphragmduring operation.

Near the center of the valve diaphragm 212, an additional enlargement252 to the surface of the diaphragm rib provides limited interferencewith the hanger slot 232, holding the diaphragm in a closed(substantially sealed) position and preventing the valve diaphragm fromdrooping or flexing downward under its own weight, away from the valveseat. For purposes of inflation and deflation, this interference iseasily overridden. External air pressure during inflation will force thediaphragm out of the closed position. Fingertip pressure on the targetarea 256, initiates deflation and will also override the interference.

The enlargement 252 near the center of the diaphragm rib has anadditional function. The limited interference works in both directions.In addition to holding the valve diaphragm 212 in a closed position, italso holds the diaphragm in an open position 260, away from the valveseat during deflation. During deflation the enlargement interferes withthe bottom of the hanger so as to prevent upward movement of thediaphragm, maintaining the valve in the open position.

Fingertip pressure on the target area 256 can be employed to temporarilyinterrupt the seal and allow controlled release of the air, providing asimple means of adjusting pressurization of the inflatable device. Thevalve self-seals upon removing the fingertip pressure.

For installation and replacement of the valve diaphragm 212, thediaphragm is inserted into or removed from the diaphragm hanger 220through the exterior of the air inlet orifice.

The ribs are configured to securely position the diaphragm within thevalve housing and to provide maximum air flow through the air inletorifice. The ribs are also configured to allow the diaphragm to bemanually deflected for temporary interruption of the air seal.

For more substantial air release, such as during deflation, the ribs anddiaphragm are additionally configured so that with further manualdepression of the diaphragm the diaphragm will be moved to a point whereit will be held in a partially open position, facilitating air release.

The diaphragm is secured with the operating position at a point 264. Thepoint works in combination with an interlocking lip in the diaphragm 268to secure a closed position regardless of the internal pressure of theinflatable device. For rapid inflation, with maximum airflow, if the lipon the diaphragm is in the locked position, it can be manually unlockedby pressing the diaphragm into the orifice at the point 256. Uponpressurization, the diaphragm automatically moves to the lockedposition. During temporary interruption of the seal, the diaphragm willnormally stay in the locked position. For maximum air release duringdeflation, further deflection of the diaphragm will move it into anunlocked position 260.

In an alternative configuration of the valve housing, the outer rim ofthe air inlet is a removable component and may be separated from thevalve housing. The removable rim itself will accommodate variousinternal configurations according to the pressurization/performancerequirements of the device the valve is used with.

FIG. 24–36 illustrate another embodiment of the self-sealing valve ofthe invention. The diaphragm (300) is positioned within the valvehousing (304) by a movable horizontal arm (312) which suspends thediaphragm in the center of the air inlet (308). This arm, a rotatingdiaphragm hanger (312), is removably contained within the air inlet ofthe valve housing, with one end secured laterally, adjacent to theinside wall (316) of the air inlet. The point of attachment isconfigured to allow the hanger to pivot downward into the valve housing,a motion which unseats the valve diaphragm and opens the airpath intothe bladder as required for both inflation and deflation of aninflatable device.

The hanger flares outward towards the inner wall of the air inletcreating a “paddle” surface (320) which overspreads much of the airinlet. The expanded horizontal surface of the paddle provides stabilityto the surface of the flexible diaphragm (300) as it rotates back andforth from the seated to an unseated position. The paddle also enhancesmanipulation of the hanger (by fingertip) for pressure control. Thepaddle as shown in the drawings has a continuous surface at itsperimeter. Alternative paddle configurations are being considered whichemploy a more open paddle structure, such as for example, radiatingribs, etc are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure.

The pivot point (324) includes a hinge “pin” (328) suspended via a pairof ribs (329) from the underside of the pivoting hanger (312) and asurface with a mating recess (332) formed on the inside walls (336) of apair of fixed arms (340) which extend horizontally inward from theinside wall (316) of the air inlet.

The pivot point works in combination with surface projections extendingfrom both the valve housing and the hanger arm to:

A) restrict movement of the valve diaphragm to prevent outward movementof the valve diaphragm into the air inlet (as may occur underpressurization), or to prevent rotation of the diaphragm through thevalve housing into the inflatable device.

B) secure the diaphragm alternatively in an open and a closed position.

C) suspend the hanger and diaphragm in a substantially closed positionwhile allowing both to flutter from a partially open to a sealedcondition in response to external or internal pressure.

To accomplish (A), the vertical rear edge (356) of the pair of ribs(329) suspending the hinge pin (328) bear on the inside wall of the airinlet at Point F (360), preventing the hanger from rotating upwardbeyond a horizontal position. Downward rotation of the hanger isrestricted by the pair of fixed arms (340), as they bear on theunderside of the top of the hanger (see FIG. 32).

In certain applications, additional support may be necessary in order toaccomplish (A). Point L (364) may be added at various locations aroundthe inside perimeter of the air inlet. It includes an overhangingprojection extending inward from the inner wall of the air inlet whichbears on the perimeter of the paddle surface of the rotating hanger.

To accomplish (B), a second pair of projections (368), extending fromthe inner side walls of the rotating hanger removably engage with thetabs (372) integral to the fixed arms (340). Once in a downward (open)orientation, interference created by the tab and mating projectionprevents the hanger from freely rotating back to the horizontalposition, thus maintaining the valve in an open position in order tofacilitate deflation. This interference may easily be overridden, eithermanually (by pressing through the bladder's flexible membrane upward onthe bottom of the diaphragm) or by pressurization (internal air pressureresulting from full inflation or compression of the bladder).

The projections and opposing surface work in combination with a springaction integral to the fixed arms (340). The spring action, a lateralflexure resulting from the slim vertical profile of the arms, allows thearms to flex inward. In doing so, the combined width of the armscompress, overriding the interference created by the projection andopposing surface. The ability of the fixed arms to flex laterally inthis manner enables the hanger (and the diaphragm) to be removablysecured in both an open and a closed position.

The drawings (see FIGS. 31 and 32) illustrate the above describedflexure. Alternative sources of flexure, in keeping with the generalvalve configuration disclosed here, have been considered: flexure withinthe rotating hanger could either supplement or replace the spring actionof the fixed arms.

To accomplish (C), the projections 368 located on the inner side wallsof the hanger have an inclined surface. When pressure is applied and thehanger rotates downward, the incline forces the pair of fixed arms tocompress (employing the arms' spring action). With removal of pressure,the spring arm returns to its natural position. As it returns, it bearson the incline and lifts the hanger (and diaphragm) back to a horizontal(sealed) position. The ability of the valve to freely flex in thismanner facilitates the following:

-   -   1) increases the efficiency of manual inflation. As manual        inflation involves a pulsed injection of air, it is important        the valve automatically seal between pulses (preventing air        loss); and    -   2) allows adjustment (control) of pressurization. To enable        controlled releases of air while the device is in use, it is        important that the hanger be both accessible and that it move        freely to facilitate partial opening of the diaphragm (finger        tip actuation) and automatic sealing of the diaphragm        thereafter.

The pair of ribs (329), containing the segmented hinge “pin”, extenddownward from the underside of the top surface of the hanger. Sidewaysflexure of these ribs provides means for attachment or removal of thehanger from the valve housing. When the hanger is in operating position(hinged and open), sideways movement of the top surface of the hanger atPoint M results in an inward flexing of the ribs, allowing the hinge“pin” to move away from the mating surface on the fixed arms, and thusdislodging it from the hinge point. The inward flexing occurs as thehinge “pin”, with its curved outer edge, slides over the pin's matingsurface at Point U. A radius softened edge at Points V combines with thepin's curved outer edge to reduce interference and allow removal andinsertion of the hanger.

Reversing this sideways motion causes the “pin” to engage. The ribscontaining the hinge “pin” again flex inward, allowing the pin to moveinto the hinged position.

Removal and insertion of the hanger (and the valve diaphragm) would notbe part of the normal operation of the valve, occurring only upon theinstallation of a new hanger or diaphragm into the valve housing, or asa maintenance function.

FIGS. 37–47 illustrate still another embodiment of the self-sealingvalve of the invention. In a simplified version of the valve of FIGS.24–36, the diaphragm is also positioned within the valve housing (400)by a movable horizontal arm (404) which suspends a valve diaphragm inthe center of the valve housing's air inlet. As in the valve of FIGS.24–36, this arm, a rotating diaphragm hanger, is removably containedwithin the air inlet (408) of the valve housing, with one end securedlaterally, to the inside wall (412) of the air inlet. As in the valve ofFIGS. 24–36, the point of attachment is configured to allow the hangerto pivot downward into the valve housing, unseating the valve diaphragmand opening the airpath into the bladder as required for both inflationand deflation of an inflatable device.

As in the valve of FIGS. 24–36, the rotating diaphragm hanger includes apaddle surface (416) concentric with the air inlet and overspreading asubstantial portion of the inlet.

Serving as the valve diaphragm (420), a circular disc made of aflexible, air impermeable material, is suspended from the center of thepaddle surface. A hole configuration (422) allows the circular flange(423) projecting from the center of the top of the diaphragm to passthrough the underside of the rotating arm and lock the diaphragm insuspension.

Two parallel ribs (424) extending from the paddle surface to a slottedsection (428) in the rim (432) of the air inlet include hinge pins (436)which mate with a recessed area (440) located in either sidewall (444)of the slot, thus defining a pivot point.

Between the ribs, running parallel with them, a leaf spring member (448)extends form the center of the paddle surface to the wall of the airinlet. Bearing on an angled surface (452) recessed in the wall of theinlet, the spring is configured to hold and maintain the rotating arm(and the attached valve diaphragm) in a horizontal position whileallowing both to rotate downward into the valve housing upon inflationor deflation.

Another rib (456), integral to the rim of the valve housing, runningperpendicular to and just above the parallel ribs of the rotating arm,serves as a barrier and prevents the rotating arm from rotating upwardbeyond a horizontal position.

As the arm rotates, the end (460) of the leaf spring moves in a recessedarea (461), which includes angle (452). This area and the end of thespring provide a combined configuration which:

1) allows the rotating arm to rotate inward with the application ofpressure and return to the horizontal position when pressure is removed(see FIGS. 44 and 45), and

2) removably engages with the rib, such engagement causing the rotatingarm to maintain the valve in an open condition in order to facilitatedeflation (see FIGS. 46 and 47), and

3) restricts downward motion of the rotating arm into the valve housing(see FIG. 47).

So configured, it is envisioned that the valve will operate inessentially the same way as the valve of FIGS. 24–36.

A further variation of the self-sealing valve of the invention isillustrated in FIGS. 48–51 and involves a flexible diaphragm supportedin a fixed location within the valve housing, located so as to allow theouter diameter of the diaphragm to seat against the mating surface ofthe valve housing and provide a complete hermetic seal subsequent toinflation, the seal resulting solely from outward pressure due topressurization within the inflated bladder, this pressure forcing thediaphragm to maintain a seated condition (See FIG. 49).

Likewise, inward pressure during inflation causes the flexible diaphragmto separate from the valve seat, providing a pathway for infusing thedevice with air (See FIG. 50).

For controlled air release and for deflation, the location of thediaphragm further allows manual partial deflation of the diaphragm awayfrom the valve seat, providing a pathway for exhausting air (See FIG.51).

The difference between this version of the valve and the previouslydescribed version is that the point (or points) of attachment of thevalve diaphragm within the valve housing maintain a fixed location withrespect to the valve seat. The functionality of the valve diaphragmrelies upon a fixed location at the point (points) of attachment whileemploying the flexibility of the unattached surface of the diaphragm toalternatively provide a seal or an air pathway.

A preferred version of the self-sealing valve of the invention isillustrated in FIGS. 52–61. A diaphragm 602 is positioned within a valvehousing 606 by a movable hanger arm 610 which suspends the diaphragmfrom mounting point 612 in the center of an air inlet 614. The hangerarm is a rotating diaphragm hanger that is removably contained withinthe air inlet of the valve housing, with one end secured adjacent to aninner wall 618 of the air inlet. A point of attachment of the one end ofthe hanger arm to the inner wall is configured to allow the hanger armto pivot downward into the valve housing, a motion which unseats thediaphragm from valve seat 620, a closed position, and opens an airpath,an open position, into a bladder of the inflatable device as requiredfor both inflation and deflation of the inflatable device.

The hanger arm 610 flares outward towards the inner wall of the airinlet creating a “paddle” surface 622 which overspreads much of the airinlet 614. The paddle surface of the hanger arm provides stability tothe flexible diaphragm as it rotates with the hanger arm from the closedposition to the open position. The expanded paddle surface of the hangerarm also enhances manipulation of the hanger arm by, for example, afingertip of a user to, for example, control a pressure of theinflatable device. The paddle surface projects outward to a point 626,extending the length of the hanger arm. This projection bears upon theflexible diaphragm, thereby preventing it from flexing upward when thehanger arm is pressed downward for pressure control or deflation.

Referring to FIG. 58, the hanger arm incorporates a pair of projectingtabs 630, in parallel juxtaposition, extending from the paddle surface622 towards the inner wall 618 of the air inlet 614. The hanger arm canbe secured within the air inlet by seating holes 633 found in each ofthe projecting tabs with a pair of hinge “pins” 634 that mate with theseating holes. The pair of hinge “pins” are formed as part of the innerwalls of the air inlet, projecting from two brackets 636 which extendinward from the inner wall towards the center of the air inlet. There isa contoured section 648 between the hinge “pins” of the inner wall of atleast one of the brackets and the inner wall of the air inlet. Thecontoured section interfaces with a contoured end 650 of the projectingtabs to provide at least four distinct interaction possibilities. Afirst possibility exists when surface 651 on the projecting tabs bearson surface 652 of the inner wall, restricting rotation of the arm abovea horizontal position, thereby securing the valve diaphragm in asubstantially closed position and preventing the hanger arm anddiaphragm from moving out of the valve housing.

A second possibility exists when beveled surface 655 on the projectingtab bears on counter-beveled surface 656 on the wall. An inclined angleof this counter-beveled surface causes the projecting tab toincreasingly compress inward as the hanger arm is pressed downward intothe valve housing. This may occur both during inflation (by airpressure) and deflation (by manual deflection of the hanger arm tounseat the valve from the valve seat). The compression of the projectingtab also results in a counter action, so that, with removal of thedownward pressure the tab “springs” back to its original position andforces the hanger arm and diaphragm to return to the closed position.

Referring to FIG. 60, a third interaction possibility exists when thehanger arm is depressed fully, the projecting tabs rotate slightlybeyond the beveled surface 656 (See FIG. 57) on the inner wall to apoint where there is a recess 660 in the inner wall contour which isconfigured to allow the tabs to expand slightly and lock the rotatingarm in a locked open position.

This locked open position maximizes airflow through the valve housingand will, under certain conditions, improve efficiency of both inflationand deflation. The locked open position has an easy override whichresponds to, for example, fingertip manipulation (by applying pressureat, for example, projecting point 664 on the projecting tab), or tointernal pressurization of the inflatable device.

The projecting tabs of the rotating arm may also be extended by achannel 666 within the hanger arm to enhance side-to-side flexure of thehanger arm. The flexure of the hanger arm may be used both for theoperation of the arm, as previously described, and for installation andremoval of the arm into and out of an operating position within thevalve housing as illustrated in FIG. 59. It is useful that the hangerarm be removable/reinstallable in the field by the user, thus it iscontemplated that the arm will be held by the user (with the attacheddiaphragm) and that the user will employ the flexure of the projectingtabs by “squeezing” the projecting tabs, to install and/or remove thehanger arm and diaphragm. The contoured end 650 of the projecting tabs,combines with the contoured section 648 of the inner wall to allow thearm to be inserted above the horizontal position into the valve housingas illustrated in FIG. 61, thereby improving accessibility and ease ofinstallation of the arm. During installation, the “squeezed” hanger armmay be inserted in a vertical orientation with the projecting tabsprojected into the air inlet towards the hinge “pins” 634. Withalignment of the seating holes and hinge “pins”, the user will releasepressure on the projecting tabs, whereby they will spring outward andengage with the hinge “pins”. As the hanger arm and diaphragm are thenrotated downward into the valve housing beyond the horizontal position,the projecting tabs will further expand, seating the hanger arm in theoperating position, where the hanger arm contoured end 650 and thecontoured inner wall 648 prevent movement of the hanger arm above thehorizontal position.

It is also to be appreciated that for the purpose of installation of thehanger arm and diaphragm, the projecting tabs contoured end and thecontoured section of the inner wall will combine so as to, at least forpart of the installation, automatically compress the projecting tabs asthe hanger arm is “slid” by the user into position, thereby eliminatingany requirement for “squeezing” the hanger arm.

It is further contemplated that the projecting tabs contoured end andthe contoured section of the inner wall will combine so as to locate theseating holes and hinge “pins” in alignment without requiring that theuser visually direct the movement of the hanger arm to the point ofalignment.

Thus, the pivot point, and the contour of the hanger arm projecting tabswork in combination with the contoured section of the inner wall tostabilize the activity of the valve diaphragm within the valve housingso as:

A) to restrict movement of the diaphragm thereby preventing outwardmovement of the diaphragm into or through the air inlet (as may occurwith pressurization), and preventing inward movement of the diaphragmthrough the valve housing into the inflatable device;

B) to secure the diaphragm alternatively in an open and a closedposition;

C) to suspend the diaphragm in a substantially closed position whileallowing it to flutter from a partially open to a sealed condition inresponse to external or internal pressure; and

D) to facilitate installation and removal of the rotating arm anddiaphragm by the user.

An alternative version of this embodiment of the self-sealing valveincorporates a partial rib 670 projecting from the bottom side of thevalve housing, concentric with, and adjacent to a portion of the edge ofthe flexible diaphragm. As the diaphragm flexes downward (or inward),the diaphragm edge bears upon the rib, providing resistance which workswith the resilience of the diaphragm to help urge the diaphragm back tothe horizontal (sealed) position.

Still another version of this embodiment includes structure forconnecting the valve housing 606 to any inflation device, such as, forexample, a hand pump, a foot pump, a powered pump, an extension air ductfrom a remote pump source, and the like. Referring to FIGS. 55–56, theperimeter of the valve housing is formed by a flange 674 which serves asa point of attachment to the port of the inflatable body. Adjacent aninterior to the flange is an outer rim 676. The rim includes projectingtabs 680, (or threads, etc.) for the purpose of removably connecting thevalve and the inflation source. These projecting tabs or threads engagewith mating tabs or threads which may be integral to any pump, adapter,or air duct connector. With engagement, the rim 684 (see FIG. 60) of theair inlet becomes compressively engaged (in contact with) a mating rimintegral to the pump, adapter, or air duct connector, providing asubstantially sealed connection. It is further envisioned that, as analternative structure for connecting the valve housing to an inflationdevice, the outer wall 688 (See FIG. 60) of the air inlet couldincorporate “threads” or other structures for attachment or mounting,either directly or indirectly, to any inflation/deflation source knownto those of skill in the art. It is further envisioned that theabove-described embodiment of the self-sealing valve may be providedwith a cover, the cover affording additional protection/security to thevalve's exposed hanger arm and diaphragm. Referring to FIG. 55, thisembodiment of the self-sealing valve may include the cavity 692 locatednear the perimeter of the valve housing for attaching a removable coverto the inflatable device (for covering and protecting the air inlet).The cover may include a mating plug which, when inserted into the hole,would serve to retain the cover with the device, whether or not thecover is in use.

It is to be appreciated that for each of the above embodiments of theself-sealing valve of the present invention the rim of the valve housingmay be removable or, in other words, is not integral to the valvehousing so that the air inlet of the valve can be either permanently orremovably attached to the valve housing.

It is to be appreciated that each of the above-described self-sealingvalves are simple to operate, inexpensive, support inflation, deflationand pressure control in any low pressure, medium pressure or relativelyhigh pressure inflatable device. In addition, each of the abovedescribed self-sealing valves do not require mechanical structure toseal the inflatable device and do not require manual sealing of theinflatable device. In other words, sealing of the inflatable device isautomatic and done under the internal pressure of the inflatable deviceso that each of the above-described valves is self-sealing.

Each of the above-described self-sealing valves also lack any structurebelow the flexible diaphragm, or in other words, each of the aboveself-sealing valves suspend the flexible diaphragm in a floatingposition with a structural member. It is an advantage of each of theabove self-sealing valves that the valves allow unrestricted flexure ofthe diaphragm during inflation thereby increasing air flow.

Each of the above-described self-sealing valves also are easy to usesince they automatically open and automatically seal in response to aninflux of air and are normally biased to a closed position, and can alsobe biased to the closed position in response to pressure within anobject to be inflated. In addition, the flexible diaphragm of each ofthe above-described self-sealing valves can be easily manipulated sothat the inflatable object can be deflated or a pressure within theinflatable object can be controlled.

Having described several embodiments of the self-sealing valve of thepresent invention, it should be apparent to those skilled in the artthat other variations, features, and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. For example, the sizeof the opening can be varied in order to accommodate the size of theobject to be inflated. For example, in order to provide air to aninflatable building, such as a tennis bubble, the opening may be verylarge as compared to a valve for use with for example, an inflatablepillow. The valve may also be provided with an extension tube forconnection over the opening 26 to facilitate manual or oral inflation.

1. A self-sealing valve, comprising: a valve housing having a fluidconduit, a valve seat, and a support member, the valve housing beingconfigured to pass fluid through the fluid conduit; and a flexiblediaphragm that provides a self-seal of the fluid conduit, comprising aperiphery of the flexible diaphragm; wherein the support member isconfigured to retain a portion of a flexible diaphragm; and wherein thesupport member and flexible diaphragm are configured to position theflexible diaphragm against the valve seat to seal the fluid conduit in aclosed position of the self-sealing valve, and to facilitate movement ofat least a part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm in a firstdirection away from the valve seat to an open position.
 2. Theself-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a containerhaving an interior, an exterior, a wall separating the interior and theexterior, and a port in the wall for transferring fluid between theinterior and the exterior, and wherein the valve housing is attached tothe wall of the container so that fluid being transferred between theinterior and the exterior of the container passes through the fluidconduit of the valve housing.
 3. The self-sealing valve as claimed inclaim 2, wherein the valve housing, the support member and the flexiblediaphragm are configured to maintain the flexible diaphragm at a valveseat side of the valve housing.
 4. The self-sealing valve as claimed inclaim 2, wherein the valve housing has a first part disposed about aperimeter of the valve housing and that may be attached to the containerwall, and a second part coupled to the first part that includes thevalve seat and the fluid conduit.
 5. The self-sealing valve as claimedin claim 2, wherein the support member and the flexible diaphragm areconstructed and arranged so that an act of fluid injection of sufficientpressure into the container causes the at least the part of theperiphery of the flexible diaphragm to move in the first direction intothe open position to permit an influx of fluid into the container. 6.The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 5, wherein the valve housing,the support member and the flexible diaphragm are configured to maintainthe flexible diaphragm in the closed position absent external forces. 7.The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 2, wherein the valve housingis flush mounted to the wall of the container so that the valve housingis either substantially coplanar with or beneath the wall of thecontainer.
 8. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 2, wherein thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are constructed and arranged sothat a sufficient fluid pressure created within the container maintainsthe at least the part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm againstthe valve seat in an absence of an influx of fluid.
 9. The self-sealingvalve as claimed in claim 2, wherein the valve housing comprises a lipdisposed about a perimeter of the valve housing that may be directlyattached to the container wall.
 10. The self-sealing valve as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the flexible diaphragm includes a stiffening devicethat reduces a flexing of the flexible diaphragm except for the at leastthe part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm.
 11. Theself-sealing valve assembly as claimed in claim 1, further comprising alocking device that is constructed to allow the flexible diaphragm to beplaced into a locked open position.
 12. The self-sealing valve asclaimed in claim 11, further comprising a releasing tab that can becontacted to release the locking device.
 13. The self-sealing valve asclaimed in claim 1, wherein the support member and the flexiblediaphragm are configured to suspend the flexible diaphragm so thatsubstantially no supporting structure exists under the flexiblediaphragm.
 14. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, wherein thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged to providenon-axial movement of the at least the part of the periphery of theflexible diaphragm in a direction not substantially along an axis of thefluid inlet, in the first direction and in the second direction.
 15. Theself-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, wherein the valve housing andthe flexible diaphragm are arranged to provide axial movement of the atleast the part of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm substantiallyalong an axis of the fluid conduit, in the first direction and in thesecond direction.
 16. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1,wherein the valve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged toprovide a high volume of fluid transfer over a low pressure rangethrough the fluid conduit.
 17. The self-sealing valve as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the valve housing and the flexible diaphragm arearranged so that substantially any part of the flexible diaphragm may becontacted to regulate the transfer of the fluid through the self-sealingvalve.
 18. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, wherein thevalve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged so that theflexible diaphragm has a plurality of interactive positions with thevalve housing.
 19. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, whereinthe valve housing and the flexible diaphragm are arranged so that theflexible diaphragm may be removed and replaced with another flexiblediaphragm.
 20. The self-sealing valve as claimed in claim 1, furthercomprising a device for connecting and disconnecting the valve housingto a fluid control device.
 21. The self-sealing valve as claimed inclaim 1, wherein the support member is flexible.
 22. The self-sealingvalve as claimed in claim 1, wherein the valve housing and the flexiblediaphragm are configured to restrain at least an additional portion ofthe periphery from moving in the first direction.
 23. A fluid valvecomprising: a valve housing having a fluid conduit, a valve seat, and asupport member, the valve housing being configured to pass fluid throughthe fluid conduit; and a flexible diaphragm that provides a seal of thefluid conduit, comprising a periphery of the flexible diaphragm; whereinthe support member is configured to retain a portion of a flexiblediaphragm; and wherein the support member and flexible diaphragm areconfigured to position the flexible diaphragm against the valve seat ina closed position of the valve, and to facilitate movement of at least apart of the periphery of the flexible diaphragm in a first directionaway from the valve seat to an open position.
 24. A fluid valve,comprising: a valve housing having a fluid conduit, a valve seat, and asupport member, the valve housing being configured to pass fluid throughthe fluid conduit; and a diaphragm having a first side and a secondside, that provides a seal of the fluid conduit, comprising a peripheryof the diaphragm; wherein the support member is configured to bias thediaphragm in a closed position proximate the valve seat absentsufficient fluid pressure against the second side of the diaphragm, tofacilitate movement of the periphery of the first side of the diaphragmagainst the valve seat to a sealed position so as to seal the fluidconduit when there is sufficient fluid pressure against the second sideof the diaphragm, and so as to facilitate movement of the diaphragm toan open position when there is sufficient fluid pressure against thefirst side of the diaphragm.
 25. The valve as claimed in claim 24,further comprising a container having an interior, an exterior, a wallseparating the interior and the exterior, and a port in the wall fortransferring fluid between the interior and the exterior, and whereinthe valve housing is attached to the wall of the container so that fluidbeing transferred between the interior and the exterior of the containerpasses through the fluid conduit of the valve housing.
 26. The valve asclaimed in claim 25, wherein the valve housing has a first part that maybe attached to the container wall, and a second part coupled to thefirst part that includes the valve seat and the fluid conduit.
 27. Thevalve as claimed in claim 25, wherein the valve housing is flush mountedto the wall of the container so that the valve housing is substantiallycoplanar with the wall of the container.
 28. The valve as claimed inclaim 25, wherein the valve housing comprises a lip that may be directlyattached to the container wall.
 29. The valve assembly as claimed inclaim 24, further comprising a locking device that is constructed toallow the diaphragm to be placed into a locked open position.
 30. Thevalve as claimed in claim 24, wherein the support member and thediaphragm are configured to bias the diaphragm in the closed positionwith no supporting structure under the diaphragm.
 31. The valve asclaimed in claim 24, wherein the valve housing and the diaphragm arearranged to provide axial movement of the diaphragm substantially alongan axis of at least a portion of the fluid conduit in the firstdirection and in the second direction.
 32. The valve as claimed in claim24, wherein the valve housing and the diaphragm are arranged to providea high volume of fluid transfer over a low pressure range through thefluid conduit.
 33. The valve as claimed in claim 24, wherein the valvehousing and the diaphragm are arranged so that the diaphragm may becontacted to regulate the transfer of the fluid through the self-sealingvalve.